A Benediction

As we close out the first week of this new year, take this benediction with you. Perhaps say it over yourself. Perhaps read it through a second time, praying it over someone else.

May God bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships, so that we may live deep within our hearts.

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May God bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, and exploitation of people, so that we may work for justice, freedom, and peace.

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May God bless us with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, hunger, and war, so that we may reach out our hands to comfort them and turn their pain into joy.

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And may God bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in this world, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done, to bring justice and kindness to all our children and the poor.

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AMEN.

- Sister Ruth Marlene Fox, 1985